Is it safe to say that any prism light-esque squares on the ground in areas that most certainly don't have an "underground" are purely ornamental? I'm almost certain I've seen some in Ballard, and possibly Fremont.
That is probably the case but areaways, as these under the sidewalk spaces are known, are wide-spread throughout Seattle, not just in the older part of the city. I think they are built to provide a variety of infrastructure access.
Aw, I never knew they were originally clear!
I’ve always wondered why they were purple and what their purpose was! Thank you!
Is it safe to say that any prism light-esque squares on the ground in areas that most certainly don't have an "underground" are purely ornamental? I'm almost certain I've seen some in Ballard, and possibly Fremont.
That is probably the case but areaways, as these under the sidewalk spaces are known, are wide-spread throughout Seattle, not just in the older part of the city. I think they are built to provide a variety of infrastructure access.
Something similar on sailing ships to light up the stowage or steerage, I believe.
I've heard that the glass "tiles" at the top of the King Street Station tower are the same material, thus their purplish color.
I hadn't heard that. Thanks.